A five-run first inning helped Aberdeen’s softball team get off to a blistering start in its first game of the season in an 8-2 win over North Mason on Friday at the Bishop Athletic Complex.

The game-deciding rally was fueled by some patient at bats that allowed Aberdeen to put runners on base for Kaci Powell who broke the game open with two-RBI double that smacked against the centerfield wall.

With plenty of run support to work with Powell cruised for most of the game in the circle and relied on her defense to care of the rest while she pitched to contact. Stephanie Stopsen also drove in two runs for the Bobcats.

Aberdeen head coach Scott Wilson said Powell really impressed him in her first start of her first start but was pleased with how his whole lineup performed.

“She did a phenomenal job. She kept them at bay,” he said. “We had some great key hits by players. We had a few mistakes at the end but overall our kids played great. I was happy with our first game out.”

Following a jamoree today in Elma, the Bobcats visit Yelm on Monday.

N. Mason 000 001 1 — 2 2 1

Aberdeen 500 210 x — 8 8 1

Last names of North Mason players not reported; Powell and R. Glanz.

RBI: Aberdeen — Powell 2, Stopsen 2, Hammond, Jones, Troseth. Two hits: Aberdeen — Stopsen. Doubles: Aberdeen — Stopsen 2, Powell.

Winning pitcher — Powell (walked three; struck out five).